Who invented the iPod's interface? The answer to this question is now getting some unwanted attention. Apple Insider has discovered that the future of the iPod interface may be in jeopardy, because attempt by Apple Computer to patent the menu-based software interface has proved unsuccessful.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office rejected Apple's application, citing a similar patent already registered by a Microsoft researcher.

The Apple's patent application is submitted under the names of Apple's vice president Jeff Robbin and Apple chief executive Steve Jobs

Platt discloses an apparatus and a method of assisting user interaction with a multimedia asset player by way of a hierarchically ordered user interface, comprising: displaying a first order user interface having a first list of user selectable items; receiving a user selection of one of the user selectable items; and automatically transitioning to and displaying a second order user interface having a second list of user selectable items based upon the user selection,'

If Apple fails to secure the patent, Platt may get very rich, because he will be able to demand royalties from Apple.